Xavi and Rafinha likely to return for Barcelona's trip to Granada
Luis Enqrique will continue with his controversial rotations against Granada with his aim being to arrive in March with as many of the players as possible feeling fresh.
That way, they can finish strongly in la Liga, compete in the Champions League and go for the Copa del Rey. There is also a Clasico on the horizon, with Real Madrid due at Camp Nou on March 22.
The first, and obvious, change on Saturday will be Claudio Bravo replacing Marc-Andre ter Stegen in goal. The Chilean plays league games, while the German plays in Europe and the Copa.
In defence there may also be a rotation. With Gerard Pique suspended, Marc Bartra is likely to start, while Jeremy Mathieu and Adriano may also be used from the off as well. Javier Mascherano playing in midfield, with Sergio Busquets rested, should not be discarded either.
If Mascherano is in midfield, he is likely to be playing alongside Xavi Hernandez and Rafinha, who look set to take the places of Ivan Rakitic and Andres Iniesta.
Xavi has played very little since the loss to Real Sociedad -- starting three of 13 games. However, when he has played, such as at San Mames against Athletic where he was applauded by the home fans, he has always given a positive performance.
He has taken on his new role in Luis Enrique's team well, a role which was explained to him in the summer. It isn't as relevant, but it is still important and he continues to work hard in training.
On top of that, Xavi has been key in keeping the tension between Luis Enrique and Lionel Messi at a minimum.
Then, next week against Villarreal, Barcelona will play for the chance to make it to the final of the Copa del Rey. Despite holding a 3-1 lead from the first leg, Lucho will put out his strongest side at El Madrigal.
